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New searchThe general proposed scope of the plan appears to cover the main matters which would be anticipated to be included within the Local Plan Review. However, given that one of the background requirements for the review relates to providing for long term growth (in particular in relation to delivery within the Oxford to Cambridge Arc), it is considered that the scope should explicitly reference this matter. The scope of the Local Plan Review should also include some allocations for leisure and tourism uses. Although previous Local Plans have encouraged leisure and tourism through general policies in the Plan, they have not actively promoted any sites through allocations. There is an opportunity for this be addressed as part of the Review.
Although referencing East-West Rail and improved connectivity to Oxford and Cambridge, it is considered that the vision should include and elaborate on how it will have supported and contributed to the ambitious growth objectives within the Oxford to Cambridge Arc. Although the Vision states that there will be tourism opportunities as a result of the Bedford To Milton Keynes Waterway Park, it does not set out any objectives for increasing tourism elsewhere in the Borough. Tourism can help to promote economic growth and should be considered as part of the overall economic package.
As has been set out, the examination of the 2030 Local Plan established that the requirements for this ‘immediate’ review is to address the development ambitions of the Oxford – Cambridge Arc and to maintain adequate house building rates in the context of the Inspectors noting that the 2030 Local Plan relied on Neighbourhood Plan housing sites. Although it is acknowledged that it will challenging, it would appear logical to suggest that the plan period should correspond with the growth ambitions of the Oxford – Cambridge arc, and accordingly it is considered that the plan period should be extended to 2050.
The strategy should include the allocation of rural tourism opportunities. Sustainable rural tourism is encouraged by the NPPF as part of supporting a prosperous rural economy. There is an opportunity to allocate our clients site known as Great Barford Lakes which has been submitted as part of the Call For Sites process. This site measures 23.5 ha and can accommodate a mixture of Static Caravans, Camping Plots, Holiday Lodges and a facilities Centre including shop and restaurant to support a range of leisure activities including angling, a range of water sports, and walking and cycling. This site benefits from good connectivity to the A1 and A421 and is on the Oxford To Cambridge Growth Arc.
Infrastructure including education, health, transport, community facilities and open space are considered key considerations in the delivery of growth in Bedford Borough.
It is considered that the location of new employment sites should correspond to the development strategy, ensuring that they are in accessible locations and well associated to the locations of growth.
Providing growth along and around the strategic connections between Oxford and Cambridge (e.g. A421 and East-West Rail) are considered key to acting as draws into the Borough and increasing the value of its economy.
No further views are held on this matter.
It is considered that the provision of guidance for developers on how to respond to climate change would be useful in providing clarity on the expectations of the Council on this matter. It is considered that any guidance should focus on matters of planning rather than duplicating requirements covered by alternative regimes such as Building Regulations.
It is considered that the Council is best placed to determine whether there is evidence that house building within the Borough is required to go beyond new national house building standards.
